Lady Bantry's Lookout: Panoramic Views of Glengarriff

Lady Bantry's Lookout, locally known as Fhaill na geat (the cliff of the cats), is a must-visit viewpoint within Glengarriff Nature Reserve in County Cork. The lookout is named after the wife of an Earl of Bantry, who, confined to a wheelchair in her later years, was carried up the steep hill by teams of strong Irishmen to enjoy picnics and the stunning scenery. The trail to the lookout is a steep, but short, climb through the woods. The path heads south from the main car park, crossing a footbridge and following an ancient road. The ascent offers glimpses of the surrounding woodlands, home to diverse flora and fauna. As you near the top, look out for the Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo) with its characteristic red fruit in late summer. From the top, the panoramic views are breathtaking. To the north, you can see the full expanse of Glengarriff woodlands nestled in a rugged glen, framed by the Caha Mountains. Garnish Island, Whiddy Island, and Bantry Bay stretch out to the south, creating a stunning vista. The lookout provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of Glengarriff and its surroundings.